The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal met the Minister of Enterprises, Govt of Italy, Adolfo Urso, in an effort to deepen the maritime cooperation between the two countries here today. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the docking of Italian Navy School Ship, The Amerigo Vespucci, at the Indira docks in the Mumbai Port. Sonowal also joined Urso to visit the ‘Villagio Italia,’ a model village of Italy to showcase its culture.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “It is a moment of great satisfaction that both the countries, India and Italy, are committed towards deepening the bilateral relationship. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the economic cooperation between the two countries has surged as Italy remains among the top trading partners of India, with significant inroads in sectors like trade, infrastructure, automobile and renewable energy. Today, we enjoy the Strategic Partnership as we are working in sectors like cyber security, innovation, defence, outer space, green economy, energy security, and transition, as well as Blue Economy. Given the growing trading relationship, it is important that we must deepen our maritime cooperation to unlock economic wealth for both the nations. We know that Cochin Shipyard Limited is already working with Fincantieri in the field of shipbuilding. We remain committed to look for more possible collaborations and explore opportunities how the rich potential of Blue Economy can be explored to deepen our bilateral maritime relationship.”
Speaking at the inaugural session, the Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal also requested for support and collaboration in National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC), which is being built by the MoPSW at Lothal in Gujarat. The Minister highlighted how the maritime expertise as well as the cultural prowess of Italy can add value to this maritime museum.
An Italian Village was created on the wharf facility where the above vessel was berthed for showcasing the best of Italian creativity and craftsmanship. At the Villagi Italia, many exhibitions like ‘We Are Sea’ exhibition, Expo Leonardo, Giotto Experience, The Art of Jago, Sanremo Festival among others will be showcased. Apart from this, the visitors can also visit the Vespucci, dubbed as the ‘world’s most beautiful ship’, which is travelling across the world.
